Definition of stupendousnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word stupendous different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of stupendous are monstrous, prodigious, and tremendous. While all these words mean "extremely impressive," stupendous implies a power to stun or astound, usually because of size, numbers, complexity, or greatness beyond description.

a stupendous volcanic eruption

In what contexts can monstrous take the place of stupendous?

The words monstrous and stupendous are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, monstrous implies a departure from the normal (as in size, form, or character) and often carries suggestions of deformity, ugliness, or fabulousness.

the monstrous waste of the project

When is prodigious a more appropriate choice than stupendous?

Although the words prodigious and stupendous have much in common, prodigious suggests a marvelousness exceeding belief, usually in something felt as going far beyond a previous maximum (as of goodness, greatness, intensity, or size).

made a prodigious effort and rolled the stone aside

Where would tremendous be a reasonable alternative to stupendous?

While in some cases nearly identical to stupendous, tremendous may imply a power to terrify or inspire awe.

the tremendous roar of the cataract

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of stupendous Between Sandoval’s 4 1/3 innings of one-run ball and a stupendous collective effort by the Boston bullpen, the Red Sox completed a 2-1 victory and series sweep of the White Sox in a brisk two hours and 32 minutes. Gabrielle Starr, Boston Herald, 9 July 2026 The Boston bullpen followed with stupendous collective effort, and in a timely two hours and 32 minutes, the Red Sox completed 2-1 victory for a series sweep of the White Sox. Kels Dayton, Hartford Courant, 9 July 2026 Since SpaceX’s stupendous debut, the math governing a potential union has improved substantially. Andrew Nusca, Fortune, 22 June 2026 But once that stupendous on-screen chemistry between co-stars David Tennant and Michael Sheen kicks back in, the old magic shines through, strong as ever, giving us a fitting end to this beloved comic saga. ArsTechnica, 15 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for stupendous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for stupendous
Adjective
  • Such a contrast to the wonderful Bootham Crescent, York’s home until 2020 and within stumbling distance of not only the famous Minster but all the city’s many other attractions.
    Richard Sutcliffe, New York Times, 13 Aug. 2026
  • Stepping into the shoes of Steve McQueen is no easy feat, but Brosnan does so with style as Thomas Crown, a billionaire art thief who falls for the insurance investigator chasing him, played by the wonderful Rene Russo.
    Brian Tallerico, Vulture, 13 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • The bride adds that working with all the amazing local vendors was truly a highlight.
    Shelby Wax, Vogue, 11 Aug. 2026
  • Her energy, dedication, spirit and connection with the kids are amazing.
    Jeanne Phillips, Mercury News, 11 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • However, due to headwinds, that was reduced to 74 minutes, which was and still continues to be an astonishing achievement.
    Dhananjay Khadilkar, ArsTechnica, 7 Aug. 2026
  • It’s expected to perform an astonishing number of tasks simultaneously.
    Wilson Chapman, IndieWire, 5 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • For buildings like Mount Gilead to be built and continue to prosper for over 100 years is a miraculous feat, Thompson said.
    Kamal Morgan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 11 Aug. 2026
  • However, given the legal limitations, studies like the Stanford one are observational and limited to small groups, and the science behind ibogaine’s supposedly miraculous workings remains thin.
    Michelle Lhooq, New Yorker, 7 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Of course those are only two of the marvelous local crops on offer at both Breezy Willow and at our two local farmers’ markets — Tiber Park in the historic district and the Miller Library.
    Janet Kusterer, Baltimore Sun, 9 Aug. 2026
  • Celestial events are among the oldest and most profound human experiences of the cosmos, inspiring stories as grand as the sky is wide to explain the marvelous spectacles that arch overhead.
    Michael J. Caduto, Hartford Courant, 7 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Below, shop nine incredible beauty products straight from her shelf and prepare to get healthy, smooth, and absolutely glowing skin.
    Olivia Cefalu, InStyle, 9 Aug. 2026
  • Esponda almost came off the beam on two occasions, but showed incredible fight to salvage the routine.
    Caroline Price, Forbes.com, 8 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Schrader credits their return to the Fox River – and a surprising choice by a pair of falcons to nest outside Aurora City Hall in early April that enamored the town – to a long history of river cleanup efforts.
    Addison Wright, Chicago Tribune, 13 Aug. 2026
  • The event also sparks discussion about potential upsets, given recent surprising results in the sport.
    Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 13 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Nestled between Europe and Asia, Georgia boasts a wealth of ancient history that melds with the most stunning landscapes, and an abundance of friendly welcomes that are not just incidental but a way of life.
    Condé Nast Traveler, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Aug. 2026
  • This visually stunning documentary series captures the gripping cat-and-mouse game between investigators and perpetrators from up close.
    Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 11 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Stupendous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/stupendous. Accessed 14 Aug. 2026.

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